In 1975, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) initiated a new approach to investigations, replacing caseload management with a quality over quantity approach.

Limitations in using this approach resulted from the lack of a clear definition of a quality case or priority area and inadequate coordination with U.S. attorneys. Accomplishment statistics (consisting of convictions, fines, savings, recoveries, and fugitive locations) are the only systematically recorded information of the FBI on investigative results. These statistics were misleading because the format did not explain what the statistics meant and how dollar values had been determined, also the FBI had not established specific criteria on how accomplishments were to be claimed by field officers. Because of problems in the new approach, the FBI developed a new information system, the Resource Management Information System, to manage and allocate resources more effectively. It is expected to provide: a better basis for determining quality and allocating resources, more comprehensive and integrated data, and better criteria for determining and controlling the validity of investigative results.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Recommendation for Executive Action

Recommendation: The Attorney General should make sure that: the Resource Management Information System is monitored closely so that it adequately addresses the problems cited, U.S. attorneys and FBI field office personnel establish and pursue mutual priorities and develop prospective guidelines to identify complaints that will not be prosecuted and thus should not be fully investigated, and the Department of Justice and FBI headquarters officials meet regularly to discuss ways to make Federal law enforcement more effective.

Agency Affected:

Status: Closed

Comments: Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.